The Dutch public broadcasters have announced that the launch of the HD versions of the three main national channels Nederland 1, 2 and 3 will be delayed. A Q1 2009 start was initially envisaged.

The reason cited by the broadcasters is the delayed delivery of the necessary equipment for the new play-out and control centre. No new launch date was given, but it will be “as soon as possible”, according to a statement to the press.

The Dutch public broadcasters plan to launch HD versions of the three main national channels, to be distributed via cable and possibly satellite.

At the moment, the current DTT and IPTV providers are not able to handle HD signals over their platforms.